RKLB stock today soars over 8% after Morgan Stanley upgrade – Rocket Lab stock price target revealed

RKLB stock: Rocket Lab USA Inc (RKLB) shares jumped more than 8% on Friday after Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock and lifted its price target, pointing to favorable industry conditions expected in 2026.

RKLB Stock Price Today: Rocket Lab Stock Surges After Morgan Stanley Upgrade

Morgan Stanley raised its rating on Rocket Lab to “Overweight” from “Equal Weight” and increased its price target to $105 from $67, as per a report.

RKLB Stock Price Target

The new target suggests nearly 13% upside from the stock’s recent price of $93.2. Following the upgrade, RKLB was on track to open at an all-time high on Friday, as per a Stocktwits report.


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Space Technology Sector Outlook Turns Bullish for 2026

Morgan Stanley pointed out that the trends that drove strong performance across the space technology sector in 2025 are likely to continue into 2026. The firm introduced an “Attractive industry view” for the space technology sector through 2026, citing higher launch cadences, new product introductions, policy support, and ongoing market maturation, as per the Stocktwits report. The brokerage also highlighted improved risk-reward dynamics for companies included in its upgrades, including MDA Space.

Rocket Lab Stock More Than Tripled in 2025

Rocket Lab’s stock performance in 2025 reflected those broader sector trends, with shares more than tripling over the year. Operationally, the company completed 21 successful Electron rocket launches during the year and reported nearly 40% revenue growth over the first three quarters.

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Rocket Lab Q4 Revenue Forecast Shows Strong Year-Over-Year Growth

For the fourth quarter, Rocket Lab expects revenue in the range of $170 million to $180 million, which would represent up to a 32% increase compared with the same period a year earlier.

$816 Million US Space Development Agency Contract Boosts Outlook

Investor sentiment has also been supported by recent contract wins. Last month, Rocket Lab secured an $816 million contract from the US Space Development Agency, its largest contract to date. Under the agreement, the company will design and build 18 satellites for the Tracking Layer Tranche 3 program.

Next Rocket Lab Launch Scheduled From New Zealand

Rocket Lab’s first launch of the year is scheduled for January 20 from New Zealand, as the company begins what analysts expect to be another active year.

FAQs

Why did Rocket Lab stock jump today?
Shares rose after Morgan Stanley upgraded the stock and raised its price target.

What rating did Morgan Stanley give Rocket Lab?
Morgan Stanley upgraded RKLB to “Overweight” from “Equal Weight.”